U.S. Bank teamed with members of Firefighters Local Union 48 to buy a camera in memory of Oscar Armstrong, who died in March in the line of duty. The camera will be placed at Armstrong's former station in Bond Hill.

Gift bags needed

Celebrate the Child is the theme of Michael McVicker's gift-bag collection - a project to match up community members' gifts of new toys and art supplies with children needing some holiday cheer.

He started the project in 1999, collecting 400 gift bags. "The goal this year has risen to 1,800 gift bags," said McVickers, of Deer Park

To volunteer or set up a collection site, call 891-4843..

Best dogs sought

Who has the best dog in Clermont County?

That's the question Clermont administrators are hoping grade-school kids will help them answer.

Entries in the third annual "Best Dog in Clermont County" drawing/essay contest are now being accepted through Jan. 16.

The event is sponsored by Clermont County Auditor Linda Frailey, the board of commissioners and the county's Humane Society. Information packets have been sent to all Clermont County elementary and intermediate schools inviting students from kindergarten to sixth grade to participate. Judging will be completed in January, and commissioners will recognize the winners in February.

Prizes will include certificates, gift cards and a free dog license renewal.

Entries should be sent to the Clermont County Auditor's office, 101 E. Main St., Batavia, OH 45103.

Information: 732-7152.

Pastor travels to give aid

WALNUT HILLS - Elder Kevin E. Moore, pastor of Church of God and Saints of Christ Church in Walnut Hills, will be spending his holidays on a holy mission.

Moore, 45, will travel this week with 25 other members of the Church of God and Saints of Christ from across the country - including Bishop Robert Grant, the leader of the denomination - to the Republic of South Africa. They will be delivering medical supplies and helping to build churches. He returns New Year's Day.

"I feel very honored to be asked to accompany him on this trip," Moore said. "I'm a bit of a homebody and I hate being away from home, but sometimes duty calls, and I feel called to do this," said Moore, who lives in Dayton but commutes to the 30-member church at 2529 Essex Place.

Members of his congregation have given him supplies to distribute to sister churches in South Africa and a school Moore visited the last time he was in the country.

"Not all the children had pens and paper and books, but what they did have was a great urge to learn, and we just want to go back with a few supplies to help them in that process," Moore said.

In Walnut Hills, the congregation has been providing outreach as well. At the end of each month, the church hosts a free meal for people in the neighborhood.